Latest news with #Diya–AUniverseofLight
Gulf Insider
4 days ago
- Gulf Insider
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Ranks 8th on Tripadvisor's 2025
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has risen to eighth place globally on TripAdvisor's 2025 Top Attractions list, climbing two spots from its 2024 ranking. It also retains its status as the number one landmark in the Middle East, reinforcing its position as a premier cultural and religious destination. Based on reviews of more than eight million landmarks worldwide, SZGM ranks within the top 1 per cent globally, reflecting its iconic status and importance in promoting cultural tourism in the UAE. Additionally, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah has earned a place among the top 10 per cent of global landmarks, marking rapid recognition since opening its visitor services. Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said: 'The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. 'This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message. 'These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. 'They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message, presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.' Welcoming more than seven million visitors annually, SZGM transcends its role as a place of worship to serve as a beacon of Islamic art, culture, and peaceful coexistence. Its tranquil spaces foster a unique human tapestry of fraternity and dialogue among diverse cultures and faiths. Visitors enjoy comprehensive facilities such as exhibition halls, a library, shopping and dining at Souq Al Jami'. Innovative experiences like guided cultural tours, 'Unseen Glimpses' electric car tours, and 24-hour visits ensure a rich and inclusive engagement for all guests. The SZGM also hosts dynamic exhibitions and the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light experience, which narrates the mosque's message of peace and cultural heritage through sound, visuals, and sensory effects. Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain Eiffel Tower, Paris, France NASA Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex, Merritt Island, Brevard County, Florida Louvre Museum, Paris, France Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing, China Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy Plaza de España, Seville, Spain Also read: Dubai Shopping Malls Launch Virtual Worlds on Roblox Platform
Time Out Abu Dhabi
6 days ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque officially named 8th best tourist attraction in the world
Can we get a drumroll up in here? TripAdvisor's renowned list of Top 25 Tourist Attractions in the World just dropped and, yes, Abu Dhabi is storming ahead with two notable wins. It's official – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most loved landmarks on the planet. The stunning Abu Dhabi icon has just been named the number one attraction in the Middle East and eighth globally in TripAdvisor's 2025 Travellers' Choice Awards (climbing up two places from 2024's awards). Why? It has everything to do with how visitors feel. It's not just about the beauty (though yes, the domes are dazzling). It's about the whole experience – from the cultural tours and incredible exhibitions to the peaceful vibe that somehow cuts through even the busiest days. Why did Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque rank so highly? Credit: Adobe Express Because this recognition isn't just a shiny title – it reflects a whole range of upgrades and initiatives that are transforming the way visitors experience the mosque. You might also like: Escape the heat: 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi We're talking immersive exhibitions, late-night access, serene jogging paths and even exclusive behind-the-scenes tours for those curious to see what goes on when the crowds go home. The visitor numbers are climbing too, with millions coming from around the world. In fact, international visitors now make up a whopping 82 percent of all guests. And it's not just tourists – the mosque has become a regular stop for global dignitaries, school groups, families and curious locals alike. So what's new for visitors? A lot, actually. Here's what's changing the game: Unseen Glimpses tours: Ride around in a private electric club car to hidden corners of the mosque you won't find on a regular visit. Sura evening experiences: The mosque is now accessible 24/7 for special evening visits – ideal for short-stay travellers or anyone wanting to explore in a more intimate setting. El-Delleel multimedia guides: Available in 14 languages (including sign language), so everyone can learn at their own pace. Interactive museum spaces: From the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light to the Light & Peace Museum, the mosque now pairs art and sound with history and heritage. Souq Al Jami' and jogging track: Pop into the on-site market, grab a bite and walk off your lunch with a lap around the mosque's serene jogging path. Stay tuned for more update too, because the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre is constantly levelling up – think art exhibitions, library talks, cultural performances and spaces like the Dome of Peace that mix tradition with technology. So, now that you'll no doubt be off for a visit, on thing to do while you're there? Take your time. Let the place surprise you. It's more than just a photo-op – it's a whole experience and clearly, the world is paying attention. His Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said: 'The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. 'This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message. 'These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message – presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.' More things to do in Abu Dhabi Everything happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025 From new openings to big events, this is shaping up to be quite a year Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital Peel back the layers of time Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted
CairoScene
09-05-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Hosts Workshops for Abu Dhabi Students
Held throughout April and May, the workshops begin with guided tours of the Mosque Library. May 10, 2025 The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has been hosting a series of cultural workshops aimed at school students across Abu Dhabi, with two recent sessions welcoming 39 students to the Mosque Library. Organised in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the workshops are part of the 'Al Shabab Al Banie' youth programme, which focuses on nurturing cultural awareness and creative thinking among younger generations. Held throughout April and May, the workshops begin with guided tours of the Mosque Library, introducing students to its collection, services, and role as a cultural space. Sessions explore a range of topics including reading and language development, the historical role of maps, and forms of Islamic ornamentation and calligraphy. Students also have the chance to visit the Light & Peace Museum and the Diya – A Universe of Light immersive experience, engaging with artefacts that showcase the breadth of Islamic civilisation and its global connections. Since its opening in 2010, the Mosque Library has positioned itself as a centre for Islamic knowledge and intercultural dialogue. With support from H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the library holds nearly 3,000 rare and valuable books in 14 languages, alongside 50,000 microfilm copies of Arabic manuscripts covering Islamic sciences, arts, and history. The workshops are part of ongoing efforts to make the Mosque Library a hub for youth engagement, encouraging curiosity while preserving and promoting Islamic heritage.
The National
07-03-2025
- The National
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomed more than 6.5 million visitors in 2024
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre welcomed 6,582,993 worshippers and visitors in 2024, figures reported by state news agency Wam show. It marks a 20 per cent increase year-on-year for the Abu Dhabi landmark, and includes about 2.2 million worshippers and 4.3 million tourists. An additional 60,937 visitors used the mosque's jogging track. Among the total worshippers, 281,941 attended Friday prayers, while 709,875 participated in daily prayers. Ramadan and Eid prayers attracted 617,458 worshippers, with the 27th night of Ramadan witnessing a record 87,186 attendees, including 70,680 worshippers, the highest number in the mosque's history. Figures show that 81 per cent of visitors were international tourists, while 19 per cent were UAE residents. Asian tourists led with 52 per cent, followed by Europe on 33 per cent, North America on 8 per cent, South America on 3 per cent, Africa on 3 per cent, and Australia on 1 per cent. In terms of nationalities, India topped the list with 841,980 visitors, followed by China with 397,048 and Russia on 293,667. The US accounted for the fourth highest number of visitors, with 204,018, while there were 149,277 from Germany, 127,691 from the UK, and 124,691 from France. Italy, Pakistan and the Philippines had 113,204, 104,166, and 86,898 respectively. The highest single-day attendance was recorded on April 11, the second day of Eid Al Fitr, with 32,722 worshippers and visitors. During Ramadan, more than 2.1 million iftar meals were prepared as part of the 'Our Fasting Guests' initiative. Of these, 650,001 meals were distributed within the mosque's premises and 1.5 million meals were delivered to labour accommodations across Abu Dhabi. A further 30,000 suhoor meals were provided during the last 10 evenings of the holy month. There were 5,607 guided tours, which attracted 75,752 visitors, while 1,510 official delegation bookings were recorded, with 23,951 attendees taking part in guided experiences. The mosque also welcomed 309 high-level delegations, including visits from eight heads of state, a vice president, three state governors, four sheikhs and princes, nine prime ministers, seven deputy prime ministers, 11 parliament speakers, 63 ministers, 18 deputy ministers, 49 ambassadors and consuls, and 10 deputy ambassadors and consuls. In addition, five interfaith delegations, 62 military delegations, and 54 official delegations from various institutions visited the mosque. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, inaugurated the 'Light and Peace Museum' in November, which features the Diya – A Universe of Light experience within the Peace Dome. The mosque was also ranked among the top 1 per cent of tourist attractions worldwide and earned the title of the Middle East's top cultural and historical attraction, according to Tripadvisor.
